CCP 02-22-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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tit February 13, 1999 To Whom It May Concern: e e We are writing this letter in reference to our request for a variance at 3403 Lake Johanna Blvd. As you are probably already aware, we have proposed an addition to the existing structure,. lIIld discussed alternatives with the City of Arden Hills Staff, and the City of Arden Hills Planning Commission on February 3, 1999. The minutes of the meeting will show that the Commission suggests that my wife and I tear down the existing structure, reposition the home further back on the lot, and reconstruct a new 40 x 18 square foot home. After thoroughly researching the recommendation of the City Planning Commission, we have found numerous obstacles due to the unusual lot configuration and grade. Ifwe were to tear down the existing structure, and reposition a new home, the plan would still require a side variance due to the build-able area allowing a width of only 13 feet. Four out of the six mature trees on the lot would need to be removed. Any changes in the driveway location or repositioning of the home, may result in water damage to our home and/or our neighbor's property due to redirected runoff. Also, space for a driveway/off- street parking would be minimized, which may increase chances of vandalism. Lastly, our financial situation would make it difficult for us to afford such drastic measures. We feel that our proposal is reasonable and is not asking for anything extraordinary. There does not appear to be any other alternatives to improve our situation, besides the addition that we have proposed. We believe that our circumstance meets the conditions required for the approval of a variance found in Section VIII, D, 4, c of the City Code which states: "Adherence to the provisions of is ordinance is required, except for special cases which arise because of the configuration of a particular parcel. The condition shall not have been created by the landowner. A variance or variances of a side of a lot, the shape of the lot or the unusual terrain prohibit reasonable development equivalent to that which would be permitted without variance on a similar size lot located in the same district, but which lot has no unusual configuration. Economic conditions alone shall not be grounds for a variance." Our last thought might be to add a garage onto the west end of the home (after addition would be in place) to dispelled any concerns of further additions to the west by the City Staff and City Planning Commission. We have attempted, to best of our abilities, to look for other options, and meet all suggestions as made by both the City Staff and City Planning Commission. Please consider the issues stated above when making your final decision regarding our property and request for the variance. Appreciatively, Thomas & Lisa Delich